The Royals Volleyball program lands several quality recruits for their 2020 incoming class. Head Coach Robin Vannoy looks to continue their success coming off four consecutive trips to the national tournament.
Emma Hannaford
Trinity Christian Academy
Middle Blocker/Right Side Hitter
Emma was a Leadership University Graduate, Semper Fidelis All-American Program Graduate, and a member of the National Honors Society. She was named 2019 Second Team All-Region, 2019 Second Team All-West TN, and a 3-time District Champion. Emma plans to study Psychology with a minor in Biblical Studies, with the intent to pursue social work or Christian counseling. Coach Vannoy said, "when I had the opportunity to meet her I knew she was the right fit for our program and the university. Not only did she lead the Lady Lions in six different categories this season, including highest hitting and kill percentage, she impressed me the most on how she encouraged her teammates. Listening to her testimony, I know she will excel at Johnson University."
Madison Roddy
William Blount High School
Outside Hitter/Right Side Hitter
Madison earned three varsity letters during her high school career. She was also named to the AVCA Academic Team, while earning the Most Improved Award. She was also a member of the National Honors Society and earned the Scholars Award. Madison plans to pursue a degree in Sports and Fitness Leadership. "Madison is probably one of the most athletic recruits we got this season. She has worked hard to get where she is today and we are expecting big things from her at Johnson as a leader and teammate. Her experience will help us out next season," said Coach Vannoy.
Ashlynn Burek
McKeel Academy
Outside Hitter/Defensive Specialist
Ashlynn was named Most Improved Player twice and earned the Coaches Award and Leadership Award. Ashlynn plans on pursuing a degree in Family Studies. Coach Vannoy said, "Ashlynn comes in being able to play multiple positions. She has vast experience which makes her a very smart player. Her previous coaches described her as being committed and an encourager. She will be an asset to us this season in multiple roles."
Keelie Pippen
John Battle High School
Setter
In high school, Keelie earned First Team All-District and Second Team All-Region honors. Keelie will pursue a degree in Psychology. "I had the opportunity to watch Keelie play during club season and we were excited to bring her on campus for a visit. Once she met some of the players and the connection she made with the girls, I knew she would be a great fit for our program. Athletically, she will be able to run our offense which will open up more plays for our hitters," said Coach Vannoy.
Maddie Reaves
Heritage Home Scholars
Outside Hitter/Middle Blocker
Maddie earned four All-Tournament awards during her high school campaign. She also led the team in kills during her junior and senior seasons, set the school record for kills in a season, and was a team captain her final two seasons. Maddie will be studying psychology. Coach Vannoy said, "Maddie plays for Extreme Volleyball Club and I have had the opportunity to watch her weekly. She is a versatile player that can play any position on the court and leads by example."
Taylor Cole
Lakeway Christian Academy
Middle Blocker
As a high schooler, Taylor earned the Top Scholars Award and was a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. She was named Most Valuable Player during her sophomore season, and was nominated as Female Athlete of the Year during her senior year. She will be studying education. "Being able to watch Taylor play, I saw that she gives 100% at all times. Her positive attitude is contiguous and she will continue to grow athletically at the next level. Her height is much needed and will make a difference for us at the net," said Coach Vannoy.
Lydia Craft
Heritage Home Scholars
Middle Hitter
Lydia was a member of the All-Tournament Team as a sophomore and set the school record for most blocks in a season. She will be pursuing a degree in mass communication. Coach Vannoy said, "I had the opportunity to watch Lydia weekly and she has continued to improve. She is very coachable and works hard while always supporting her teammates. She is small but has the tremendous ability to jump, which will help with our blocking."
